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Healthy eating is an essential way to take care of your entire body, including your teeth and gums. The foods you eat can support the health of your mouth, but making unhealthy choices can lead to gum disease and tooth decay. Fill up on nutritious foods to keep your teeth and gums as healthy as they can be.

Fruits and Vegetables

Fresh fruits and vegetables contain a wealth of essential vitamins and minerals that support your overall health, including the health of your teeth and gums. Many fruits and vegetables contain vitamin C, a nutrient that builds collagen, which helps bind the cells in your gums together. A vitamin C deficiency can lead to weak gums, which makes them more susceptible to gum disease. Bell peppers, broccoli, citrus fruits, strawberries and kiwis are good sources of vitamin C. Vitamin A, which is present in pumpkins, leafy greens, carrots, cantaloupe and sweet potatoes, helps protect your tooth enamel. Onions can help kill bacteria, which can decrease your risk of gum disease and infection, Dental Health Magazine reports.

Whole Grains

According to the University of Colorado, simple carbohydrates, found in foods like white bread and pasta, can contribute to dental decay because they tend to stick to your teeth. Whole-wheat bread and pasta, brown rice and oatmeal are healthier choices. While they can stick to your teeth, bacteria doesn't grow as quickly when you choose foods made with whole grains instead of foods made with refined grains and added sugar, the University of Colorado notes. Drink plenty of water to rinse the food from your teeth or brush after meals to help prevent bacteria from growing.

Lean Meats

Meat can help clean your teeth of microscopic food particles that stick to your them and encourage the growth of bacteria, the University of Colorado reports. Lean pork, beef, chicken and turkey are all healthy options that can help support your oral health. Fatty fish, such as salmon and trout, might be even more beneficial because they also contain omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids might help prevent periodontal disease, as well as reduce the severity of the disease if you have already been diagnosed, the American Academy of Periodontology reports.

Dairy Foods

Milk, cheese and yogurt contain a healthy dose of calcium, which is a mineral that helps keep your teeth strong and healthy. Dairy foods also contain phosphorus, another mineral that helps build healthy teeth. The American Academy of Periodontology reports that eating dairy foods can reduce your risk of gum disease. Milk might be one of your best choices because it contains vitamin D, a nutrient that helps your body absorb calcium. Vitamin D might also reduce your overall risk of periodontal disease, the American Academy of Periodontology notes.

About the Author

Sara Ipatenco has taught writing, health and nutrition. She started writing in 2007 and has been published in Teaching Tolerance magazine. Ipatenco holds a bachelor's degree and a master's degree in education, both from the University of Denver.